Pin it A festive assortment of cookies inspired by Santas reindeer—perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring classic flavors and whimsical decorations.
I have always enjoyed making themed cookies for the holidays, and this Santas reindeer cookie platter has become a family favorite every year.
Ingredients
- For Sugar Cookie Dough: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter room temperature, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- For Decorating: 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, 1 2 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, Brown gel food coloring, Red and black candy-coated chocolates (for noses and eyes), Mini pretzels (for antlers), Sprinkles edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 3 minutes).
- Step 3:
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until a dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Step 6:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into oval or round shapes (for reindeer faces) using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Step 8:
- Place cookies 1 inch apart on prepared sheets. Bake for 10 12 minutes, or until edges are just golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 9:
- Make the icing: Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth and pourable. Tint part of the icing brown.
- Step 10:
- Decorate cooled cookies: Spread brown icing over each cookie for the reindeers face. Use red candies for noses, black candies for eyes, and mini pretzels for antlers (attach with icing). Add sprinkles or glitter if desired. Allow icing to set before serving.
Pin it This recipe brings the whole family together, especially when decorating the cookies and sharing laughs around the kitchen table.
Notes
Great to serve with hot cocoa or spiced cider.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Measuring cups and spoons, Rolling pin, Cookie cutters or glass, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk, nuts (if almond extract is used), soy (in some candies), and possibly peanuts (if using peanut butter candies). Always check candy and sprinkle labels for potential allergens.
Pin it This Santas reindeer cookie platter is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition full of joy and delicious memories.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients give the dough its texture?
All-purpose flour combined with baking powder and chilled butter creates a tender yet sturdy dough ideal for shaping and baking.
- → How do you achieve the reindeer face decorations?
Brown tinted icing is spread over cooled shapes, with candy-coated chocolates placed for eyes and noses, and mini pretzels used as antlers.
- → Can the dough be flavored differently?
Yes, adding cocoa powder to a portion of the dough introduces a rich chocolate variant for added variety.
- → What baking temperature and time are recommended?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until the edges turn golden, ensuring a crisp yet tender result.
- → Are there suggested beverages to pair with this assortment?
Hot cocoa and spiced cider complement the flavors and enhance the festive feel of the collection.